Before the March on Washington anniversary event began Saturday, Mayor Vincent Gray and other city politicians gathered at the D.C. War Memorial for a statehood rally.

“Are we here to demand justice?” a baseball hat and t-shirt clad Gray asked the crowds of hundreds rhetorically. “Justice is exactly what we’re here to accomplish.” Gray, as well as many other speakers, encouraged the supporters to push harder for statehood.

“It’s time to stop asking for what’s rightfully ours,” Gray said passionately, “And start insisting on it.”

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton echoed this sentiment: “We cannot stand back and simply receive and welcome Americans, our friends and allies, who have votes in the House of Representatives, who have two Senators in the United States Senate, and who have the right to spend their own money without congressional interference. We are asking them this morning to raise their voices for the same rights that they have for the citizens of the District of Columbia.”

Councilmember Marian Barry (D-Ward 8) attempted to speak after Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, but his microphone was cut off and music began to play. “How disrespectful!” Barry said, according to Loose Lips. “No music is more important than statehood!”

Apparently, Barry’s still smarting from the snub today.

Councilmembers Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) and Muriel Bowser (D-Ward 4), both mayoral contenders, were also in attendance. Not present was hopeful Councilmember Tommy Wells (D-Ward 6), who was instead represented by his communications director Jack Pfeiffer and several campaign supporters holding signs.

Filed Under: 51st state, dc war memorial, eleanor holmes norton, mayor gray, statehood, tommy wells,